Lardner happy with his collection of odd balls (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Lardner happy with his collection of odd balls

CALNE TOWN: IF team spirit is anything to go by, Calne Town should have no trouble in establishing themselves as a Toolstation Western League Premier Division side.

Manager Kelvin Highmore stunned the newly promoted club in the summer when he departed for Melksham Town and speculation followed a player exodus was on its way.

But, with the exception of Matt Pratley, Justin Messenger and Gareth Evans, everyone has pledged their loyalty to new manager Robbie Lardner as he makes the step up from player-coach.

He has added Lee Beavis from Devizes, Matt Minnus and Stuart Pearson, from Bath City, Chris Astley from Chippenham and son Dan from Trowbridge Town as the Lillywhites bid for successful debut top flight campaign.

Lardner said: "There are some real odd balls in the dressing room but they all enjoy playing in the same side and are committed to sharing the highs and lows together. From that point of view I could not ask for any more because they are a joy to be around. The team spirit is second to none and myself and my assistant Simon Hillier and delighted with the squad we have managed to keep together.

"When it is pouring down with rain and our backs our against the wall it is these qualities that should stand us in good stead.

"Clubs always lose players during a summer and to be honest it is normally more than just three players. Often about six or seven leave and it is a real boost the majority of the squad have stayed."

Corsham showed last season it was possible to be a force in the top flight after being promoted the season before and Lardner believes it is a sign that the gap between the two leagues has closed.

He said: "In the last couple of seasons the sides who have made the step up have performed very well and we can get some encouragement from that. Perhaps this is an indication the premier league is not as strong as it used to be and that the gap has closed. It will be a fresh challenge for us and we are under no illusions it is going to be easy but we are all looking forward to the season getting underway."

Many outsiders are tipping the Lillywhites to be the surprise team of the season but Lardner is refusing to set his side any targets.

He said: "I am not going to start predicting we will finish in the top six as our main aim this season is to establish ourselves.

"But I would be disappointed if we were not in a good position. We have brought in some new players and I am over the moon with the squad we have got here.

"A good season for Calne would be to enjoy a cup run and have some good results in the league. Remembering the size of this club it would be a good season if people are talking about us at the end of the season and saying what a good side we are."